Farrar’s worlds’ preparation affected by Tour of Britain concussion

Tyler Farrar’s plan to use the Tour of Britain as part of his final build-up for the world road race championships was dashed by his withdrawal from the race after his heavy crash yesterday. However his Garmin-Sharp team has revealed that he is still being monitored for a head injury, thus introducing some uncertainty about how soon he will be able to resume training and competition.

“Tyler was unable to take the start at the Tour of Britain today after crashing heavily during stage one, significantly hitting his head and suffering a severe concussion,” stated team doctor Prentice Steffen. “The team has a strict head injury policy and protocol and Tyler continues to undergo evaluation. Team medical staff is working closely with him to monitor his condition.”

Garmin-Sharp has confirmed he has left hospital, but he will continue to be monitored until his condition is deemed satisfactory.

At the end of August he was named to the USA team’s worlds squad, with the 28 year old set to play a role assisting others on the tough course. That participation is now awaiting confirmation.

Farrar came down in a crash close to the finish of yesterday’s stage. Mark Cavendish (Sky) was the first to hit the deck, with Farrar one of several others to also be affected.